Hari Raya is a religious holiday for the Muslim community of Malaysia. The literal meaning of Hari Raya is 'celebration day'. It is the day after the month of Ramadan, and people celebrate it with family and friends. It is a time for forgiveness and bonding.

During Ramadan, people fast from sunrise until sunset and abstain from certain activities that are prohibited during the holy month. In addition, they try to keep their minds pure and free from ill thoughts. At the end of the month, Hari Raya is celebrated to mark the success of one's self-resistance and discipline.

Hari Raya is also known as Hari Raya Eid Al Fitri or Aidilfitri. It is observed in other parts of southeast Asia by the name Lebaran. During this festival, the Muslim community in Malaysia prepare special food and exchange gifts. The older family members usually give packets of cash to children and teenagers as gifts. In addition, many decorate their homes with Hari Raya decor. 

History and Traditions of Aidilfitri in Malaysia

It is said that after migrating to Madinah, The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W introduced Aidilfitri as a meaningful celebration to the natives of Madinah; which is now widenly known as Hari Raya in Malaysia and other parts of South East Asia. Read more about Hari Raya Aidilfitri Celebrations 

Hari Raya Puasa Observance

The Hari Raya celebration marks the end of Ramadan. This day is known as the Hari Raya Puasa.

Date of Celebration

• Ramadan 2024 - Feb 28 to March 29*
• Hari Raya - March 31*

*These dates are tentative and depend on the moon's sighting. 

Hari Raya Shopping

To celebrate Hari Raya or Eid Al Fitr, people dress up in traditional clothes, decorate their homes, and prepare delicious food. One can visit nearby markets to buy the required items.

Many buy pelita or lamps to light the evening. Women also purchase traditional clothing like the baju kebaya, baju kurung, kebarung (a modern hybrid of the baju kebaya and baju kurung) and the jubah; a long one-piece dress that covers the aurat. Men buy traditional hats known as songkok and baju Melayu clothing. People buy rice, meat, spices, and Raya treats to prepare food for the festivities. Check here for an Ultimate Ramadan and Hari Raya Shopping List  

There are markets across Malaysia that bring in the best goods for the festivities. These include the bustling night markets in Selangor, bazaars in Kuala Lumpur, and large shopping centers around the country. Many people shop for hampers, Raya treats and prayer mats as gifts for their loved ones. 

Hari Raya Food

Food is an integral part of any festival, and during Aidilfitri, every household prepares delicacies for the family and guests. You can prepare many traditional Malaysian dishes, ranging from spicy stews snacks to sweet treats.

Some popular Hari Raya food in Malaysia includes -

• Lemang, a fragrant coconut rice dish in banana leaves,
• The spicy, aromatic Bubur Lambuk with vegetables and meat, and
• The sticky, sweet, Dodol.

Rice is one of the main ingredients used in the food. Malay Muslims make delicious dishes like Ketupat, Lontong, and Ketupat Palas with rice.

If you enjoy spicy foods, you should try a bowl of Ayam Masak Merah, a spicy chicken and tomato dish. Other foods prepared during Hari Raya in Malaysia include Sayur Lodeh, Beef Rendang, Sambal Tumis Telur. The snacks include Kek Lapis, Suji Biscuit, and Ondeh Ondeh.

Places to Visit for Celebration

Most people who celebrate Hari Raya stay at home for the festivities, and some visit friends and relatives. Read about Hari Raya Open House.  

Those who live outside their homes return to celebrate this auspicious day. This tradition is known as 'Balik kampung'.

You can visit the following places in Malaysia to enjoy the festival -

• Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a popular place to witness the Hari Raya celebrations. You can go to the Dataran Merdeka and enjoy iftar. The city is bustling during this festival, and you can go on a tour of heritage sites. The best place to visit is the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, where you can learn the history and even enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding spaces.

• Theatres for Performances

Theatres and groups around Malaysia organize shows and performances during Hari Raya. People come from all over the country to see these performances. You can visit various heritage centers to learn about the history of Hari Raya celebrations. There are drums and percussion performances, and even Raya concerts around Malaysia.

• Local Restaurants and Food Stalls

Hari Raya is a time when you will get delicious food. So, ensure to visit local markets and eateries with friends. You can try some delicious traditional foods at restaurants during this festival.

The best places to celebrate Hari Raya are the streets of Malaysia, with your near and dear ones. You can greet and wish joy to those around you and look at the Hari Raya decor. Streets, shops, and even tourist and heritage spots are decorated during this time. Hurry up, go for bus ticket online booking in Malaysia and grab special discounts when you travel via bus from one city to another to celebrate Hari Raya!

Save on Bus Ticket Online Booking this Hari Raya

Gear up for a joyous Hari Raya 2025 celebration with redBus, Malaysia. Save on your online bus ticket booking this Hari Raya. Travel back home to celebrate with loved ones or embark on a delightful post-feast getaway, all at unbelievable prices. 

Don't miss out on this limited-time offer. Book your tickets now on the redbus app or website and get ready for a memorable Hari Raya filled with joy, family, and affordable travel adventures.